Monkeys demand ransom to return stolen tourists to Bali

The macaques that live in Uluwatu temple in Indonesia deliberately steal items from tourists and use them as bargaining chips for food, according to a study.

Researchers from the University of Lethbridge in Canada observed this behavior, as older, more experienced monkeys stole high-value items, such as phones, and demanded more food for what they looted.

The monkey does not return the looted possessions except after receiving offers that he believes are sufficient and represent a fair exchange for him.

The researchers say the older monkeys learned and intentionally acquired more valuable collectibles.

The team noted that this spontaneous practice, widespread among monkeys, may be behaviors that have been socially learned and passed down through generations for many years, and it is the first example of a token economy that is culturally preserved in free-range animals.